South Dakota Roads Are Some of the Deadliest in America

As the transformation from fall to winter weather begins in South Dakota, the state's roadways become even more dangerous for drivers.

But even when the weather isn't a factor, South Dakota's roads are some of the deadliest in the country.

24/7 Wall St looked at the latest traffic fatality numbers from the National Safety Council and the Mount Rushmore State landed in the top ten on the list of the 15 States With the Most Deadly Roads.

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With 19.3 motor vehicle deaths per 100,000 people, South Dakota roads are the tenth most dangerous in America. That figure is well about the national average of 14.2 deaths per 100,000.

STATES WITH THE MOST DEADLY ROADS (deaths per 100,000 people)

1. Mississippi: 29.4
2. Montana: 24.4
3. Arkansas: 24.2
4. South Carolina: 23.7
5. New Mexico: 22.3
6. Louisiana: 22.2
7. Alabama: 21.0
8. Oklahoma: 20.7
9. Tennessee: 20.5
10. South Dakota: 19.3

The most recent data shows 173 motor vehicle deaths in South Dakota, which is up 20 from the previous year.

So where are the most dangerous roads in the state? The Advoctates.com says it's these five: 

• Iron Mountain Road - Black Hills

What makes it so dangerous: 314 sharp curves, minimal shoulder space

• Needles Highway - Black Hills

What makes it so dangerous: numerous sharp turns, narrow tunnels

• Catron Boulevard and Highway 16 Intersection - Rapid City

What makes it so dangerous: excessive traffic and speeds, especially in the summer

• Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway - Custer State Park  

What makes it so dangerous: animal encounters

• Interstate 90 - Statewide

What makes it so dangerous: speed and traffic

More than 46,000 people lost their lives due to motor vehicle accidents in the United States last year.